Fans initially worried about the fate of When Calls the Heart, but the network assured Hearties the show would go on.

Now, viewers are wondering what will happen to Lori's character, Abigail Stanton, and are even suggesting actresses who might replace her.

In the wake of the major college admissions scam and Lori Laughlin's alleged involvement, the fate of Hallmark's beloved When Calls the Heart series has been a huge question mark. The network dropped the 54-year-old actress, who played Abigail Stanton on the show, from all upcoming projects, and Hearties have been without Hope Valley ever since. In fact, Hallmark announced a temporary "creative hiatus" from season six as they figure out how to deal with Lori's character.

There's still no word on when the series will return, but we're interested to see how the show picks back up without such a pivotal protagonist. Will Abigail's character be replaced? Will she be nixed completely? Many fans are rooting for the former, and have even cast their own viable opinions on potential replacements. In no particular order, we took a look at some of the most promising predictions for Lori's could-be WCTH successor.

Lacey Chabert

Kailey Schwerman

Where you've seen her: The Mean Girls alum has starred in a number of Hallmark movies, including Pride, Prejudice, and Mistletoe, All of My Heart, A Royal Christmas, and My Secret Valentine. She's also currently working on a new mystery film series, Crossword Mysteries.

Why she would work: While several CountryLiving.com readers argue that Lacey would be too young to pick up Abigail's backstory, she feels like a natural pick, especially considering her extensive Hallmark portfolio and fanbase. We can see her buddying up to Elizabeth Thatcher in no time.

Candace Cameron Bure

Steven Ackerman

Where you've seen her: Aside from working with Lori on Full House and Netflix sequel Fuller House, Candace also has a handful of Hallmark projects under her belt, including A Shoe Addict's Christmas, A Christmas Detour, Puppy Love, and Just the Way You Are.

Why she would work: Many viewers have already tossed the 42-year-old actresses' name into the mix — there's even an argument that she resembles her former on-screen aunt. Candace has also seemingly stood by Lori throughout the recent crisis, making her all the more likely to come to Abigail's rescue and revive Hope Valley.

What fans think: Rather than filling in for Abigail, this Heartie envisions Candace stepping in as a brand-new character.

I bet $3 in Monopoly money they’re gonna replace Lori Loughlin on When Calls the Heart with Candace Cameron Bure as a newcomer who takes over the cafe.

Where you've seen her: She's most famous for her role on Grey's Anatomy as the no-nonsense Dr. Miranda Bailey.

Why she would work: Chandra's current on-screen claim to fame may be a medical drama, but she's no stranger to WCTH's family-friendly network. The 49-year-old starred in Hallmark's 2008 made-for-TV movie Accidental Friendship, for which she received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie. Plus, given Grey's 14-year run, she's worked up more than her fair of share of experience.

What fans think: A CountryLiving.com commenter cited more of Chandra's acting accolades, including Emmy nominations for Supporting Actress in a Drama series three consecutive years in a row. "She would be fabulous!" the reader wrote.

Lisa Whelchel

Ricardo Hubbs

Where you've seen her: The 55-year-old appeared in the 2016 Hallmark made-for-TV movie Hearts of Spring, as well as 2014's For Better or For Worse.

Why she would work: Lisa got her start on The New Mickey Mouse Club and '80s sitcom Facts of Life, but recently made a grand comeback to the small screen for more television films. She made motherhood a top priority during her 20-year acting hiatus, which she could definitely use to her advantage if she were to resume raising Cody and Rebecca Hastings on the show.

What fans think: This When Calls the Heart supporter not only petitioned for Lisa, but also requested that Hallmark avoid killing off Lori's character like they did Jack's.

Yes, recast. Another death would be too traumatic for the characters. I trust you to choose the perfect actress. RT @january_63: @Hallmark Pls recast Lori Loughlin, with Lisa Whelchel in Garage Sale @hallmarkmovie and in when calls the heart.

Barbara Niven

Katie Yu

Where you've seen her: She kicked off her Hallmark career with the network's Chesapeake Shores series, followed by Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa and movie franchise Murder She Baked, which aired on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. The actress also starred in the book-turned-TV-show Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove.

Why she would work: If Barbara's spot in over 100 films and TV shows doesn't make her a shoe-in for When Calls the Heart, we don't know what will. Her experience on not one, but two Hallmark original series could make her a top candidate, as well.

What fans think: An "excellent replacement" sounds about right.

@hallmarkchannel I think Barbara Niven would be an excellent replacement for LL on When Calls the Heart.

Nikki DeLoach

Sven Boecker

Where you've seen her: Aside from roles in Mad Men and NCIS, Nikki's made a name for herself among Hallmark devotees in films like The Perfect Catch, Christmas Land, and Reunited at Christmas, to name a few.

Why she would work: Nikki boasts acting experience, but she also developed and executive produced her most recent Hallmark holiday film. This could make her a valuable asset to the When Calls the Heart cast moving forward.

What fans think: A commenter advocated for Nikki, writing that she's "fabulous in each Hallmark movie I have seen her in." Another viewer agreed.

@hallmarkchannel Don’t cancel all of the good stories Lori was in. We all know what happened, just recast! My suggestion is Nikki Deloach!!

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